Does your Sprinter van give out strange sounds in the transmission every time you shift gears or drive? A properly functioning Van is needed for work, travel, or delivery and any unusual noises can ruin your plans and create unnecessary stress. Regardless of the sound – a grind, whine, or clunk – a transmission problem should never be overlooked. If you want to have a smooth and noiseless ride then you have to solve these problems before they become big and expensive. Let’s quickly look at what those funny transmission noises could mean, why they occur, and how they can be addressed.
Common Transmission Sounds And What They Mean
- Grinding Noises: If you hear a grinding sound at shift, then it means the synchronizers in a manual transmission are worn out. In automatic transmission systems, grinding normally indicates a problem with the gears, or in some cases, inadequate lubrication.
- Whining Sounds: A whining noise, especially a high-pitched one is usually caused by low transmission fluid or a bad torque converter. This sound increases in pitch as you gain speed and it becomes almost impossible to overlook.
- Banging Noises: A banging sound any time you shift gears normally signals that there is an issue with the transmission mounts or the internal parts of the gear or bearings. It may also indicate a problem with the driveshaft or U-joints that link the gearbox system of the car with its wheels.
Why You Hear Strange Transmission Noises
- Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid is used to decrease friction between the inner working parts of the transmission as well as to help cool it. When the fluid levels are low or the fluid is dirty it causes more friction and heat which ends up producing strange noises.
- Worn-Out Components: It is a common thing for gear, bearings, and synchronizers to wear out in a transmission, especially in vehicles that are old or those that are used for heavy tasks. Worn components cause some parts to be out of alignment and cause some strange noises.
- Torque Converter Issues: The torque converter of an automatic transmission acts as a link between the drivetrain transmitting the power of the engine to the transmission. If it is damaged or not functioning well then it will make whining or grinding sounds.
- Faulty Transmission Pump: The transmission pump is used to pump the fluid in the system to all the desired areas. A bad pump will produce whining or buzzing sounds, and it will not allow the transmission to perform its job.
How To Deal With Transmission Noises
- Inspect for External Damage: Start by checking the underneath part of your Sprinter for any signs of problems such as; fluid leaks, loose bolts, or bad transmission mounts.
- Check the Transmission Fluid: Take a look at the amount and quality of the liquid that is inside the transmission fluid tank. If there is not enough fluid, add the right kind of fluid for your Sprinter. But if it looks or smells like it’s burnt out, a fluid change or flush could be needed.
- Listen for Clues: It is important to observe the time when the noise is made. Does it happen at acceleration, deceleration, or gear change? Knowing when the sound happens can help to better understand what is wrong with it.
- Visit a Professional Mechanic: In most of the transmission problems, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. A good technician is able to look at the fault, evaluate it and then recommend how to deal with it.
Contact Sprinter Gurus for Quality Transmission Services
If you have a problem with your 
transmission or any other Sprinter van issue, contact our team at Sprinter Gurus located in Norcross, GA. We offer quality auto services to all our clients from Gwinnett County and our professional mechanics are familiar with the requirements of Sprinter owners and utilize the most effective equipment to perform the best job.
Whether you need to get to the bottom of strange sounds coming from your vehicle or you need to schedule routine maintenance or checks, we’ll be glad to assist you. We’ll diagnose the problem with your van and tell you the best solution to make you use your van again as soon as possible. Do not let those unusual transmission sounds interfere with your work or trip. Come see us at our workshop in Norcross, GA, or call us to set up an appointment or request more information about our services.
* White Mercedes-Benz Sprinter image credit goes to: Bjoern Wylezich.